St. Charles woman meets goal, closes mammogram group

Ever since a mammogram saved Kay Catlin’s life — detecting breast cancer in its early stage — she wanted to make sure every women had the opportunity for the detection procedure.

That desire turned into a fund, Two Women, For Women, that Catlin started with friend Sharon Lough, who was a supporter during Catlin’s battle with cancer. The organization helped more 1,300 women get free mammograms over a 12-year period. On June 1, the women ceased operation of the program because of a viable state alternative — the Illinois Breast and Cervical Cancer program.

“(We closed) largely because it was a duplication of services. The state has a program where women can get (free) mammograms,” said Catlin, of St. Charles. “It wasn’t a matter of money but a feeling that the goal has been accomplished.”

The organization gave uninsured women vouchers so they could be tested at area hospitals and clinics. The hospitals then billed the organization, which had funding from donors such Delnor Healthcare Foundation and Hansen-Furnas Foundation.

Even though Catlin worked on the project for 12 years, she feels no sadness that it’s over.

“You know, it feels good because I think we served our purpose. You can’t prevent breast cancer but you can catch it,” Catlin said. “I feel satisfied we accomplished our goal.”

Although their organization is no more, Lough has come up with another idea to assist in the community.

“I’ve been thinking about aiding the veterans in our area, those who need help with various things and medical needs,” said Lough, of Campton Hills. “I think it’s a worthy effort.”

Catlin, cancer-free since her treatment in 1998, said she will always provide support for breast cancer patients. In addition, she’s considered getting involved with food banks because she can’t imagine a starving child.

“I’m a born crusader,” Catlin said. “I’ll be a crusader the rest of my life.”

Despite stopping their mammogram voucher program, Lough and Catlin will keep an eye on the state program.

“If there’s a problem with the state system or it goes away, we have the option to restart our program,” Catlin said.

During their time with the organization Catlin and Lough provided vouchers for free mammograms, follow-up views and ultrasounds. As the organization grew popular in the Tri-Cities area, Two Women, For Women also provided access to pap tests, pelvic exams and consultations.

Overall the organization was just two friends helping other women.

“(Susan’s) my friend and she helped when I was going through my treatment,” Catlin said. “I’ve always known her to have a big heart. ... It just seemed like such a doable project.”

When the Illinois Breast and Cervical Cancer program started in 1995, it had income parameters women had to meet. Two Women, For Women helped fill the void.

The state program now provides mammograms to uninsured state residents between the ages of 35 and 64. For more information, call (217) 542-6088 or visit cancerscreening.illinois.gov.